NBA: LeBron James’ triple-double leads Lakers past Knicks

Los Angeles Lakers’ LeBron James (23) follows through on a three-point shot during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the New York Knicks Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

NEW YORK — LeBron James had 33 points, 12 assists and 11 rebounds in his 10th triple-double of the season, enjoying another memorable night at Madison Square Garden and leading the Los Angeles Lakers to a 128-112 victory over the New York Knicks on Saturday.

James improved to 23-8 at his favorite arena to visit, easily surpassing the 28 points per game he had been averaging in the building. He also became the seventh NBA player with 2,500 3-pointers. James made three of the Lakers’ 19, one off their season high.

Austin Reaves added 27 points and Rui Hachimura had 21 for the Lakers, who shot 58% from the field.

READ: NBA: LeBron James helps Lakers build big lead in rout of Wizards

Josh Hart had 26 points, 13 rebounds and 11 assists in his seventh triple-double of the season, but the Knicks had their five-game winning streak snapped. Jalen Brunson added 17 points and Mikal Bridges had 16.

Takeaways

Lakers: With five players making at least three 3-pointers, the Lakers showed off the kind of balanced shooting that makes any team with James dangerous.

Knicks: More important than the game for the Knicks is the status of OG Anunoby, who limped off with a sprained right foot in the third quarter after scoring 13 points.

READ: NBA: Lakers’ Anthony Davis to be re-evaluated in a week

Key moment

The chants for Bronny James grew louder late in the game and he finally got in when his father checked out with 1:50 to play. Bronny made a nice lefty layup on his only shot.

Key stat

Knicks All-Star Karl-Anthony Towns shot just 3 for 12 and finished with 11 points.

Up next

The Lakers go back to Los Angeles but not quite home, finishing their six-game trip Tuesday at the Clippers. The Knicks host Houston on Monday.